Moderator Struggles to Keep Rausch on Topic in Debate with Dooley

The Charles River Regional Chamber of Commerce, serving Needham, Newton, Watertown, and Wellesley, sponsored a debate, conducted via Zoom, between Franklin’s incumbent State Senator Becca Rausch (D-Needham), and her challenger, State Representative Shawn Dooley, a resident of Wrentham.

The moderator (and ‘timer’) was Chamber President Greg Reibman for the exchange that lasted from 1 pm Monday until just after 2pm.

Both candidates clearly outlined their priorities and approach but showcased contrasting styles. Reibman repeatedly had to cut off Rausch when she went off topic or answered a question other than the one he had asked.

Many of the topics focused on economic issues, including the Economic Development bill stalled on Beacon Hill since the summer. Dooley touted his 100 percent rating from the National Federation of Independent Businesses, and said Rausch’s score was 14.

But there were also questions on social issues, notably Reibman putting Dooley on the spot regarding his support for abortion, where he said he supported the right to choose but disagreed with “lowering the age of consent to 16,” which he said did not adequately protect women against pressure from a boyfriend, for example. In response, Rausch said she wanted to state “clearly that young women can stand on their own two feet.”

The lively exchange can be viewed in its entirety here.